Pennsylvania Environmental Protection Secretary Kathleen A. McGinty recently unveiled a new 2.8-kilowatt solar power system on the south roof of the Governor's Residence on Front Street in Harrisburg. The 16-panel photovoltaic system will power the site with clean electricity and ensure continuity of government services by providing at least 22 hours of backup power to critical infrastructure in the event of a blackout.

"This first-of-its-kind project highlights the importance of investing in renewable energy technology as a tool to ensure a reliable energy supply if the power grid ever goes down," Secretary McGinty said. "The project also showcases Pennsylvania's national leadership on energy issues. Diversifying our energy resources is a key piece of ensuring against economic and security vulnerabilities."

Installation of renewable energy systems provides another dimension to ensure that police and fire stations, hospitals and emergency centers, and government buildings can offer consistent and reliable services during blackouts. These systems also provide another source of environmentally beneficial electricity. The solar system at the Governor's Residence will generate electricity continuously during normal daytime operations, offsetting electric utility supply to the residence.